What to ask the doctor

When you’re being treated for cancer, there is understandably a lot going on in your head. Being prepared with the right questions helps you get the most from your medical appointments and take an active role in your cancer care. Knowing what to ask a doctor can make a real difference in understanding your situation and making informed decisions about your treatment.

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Our team is here to listen and support you.

How to talk to your doctor effectively

Before your appointment, write down any cancer questions to ask your doctor. This helps you remember everything you want to discuss. You might want to:

  • Take a support person to help you remember information
  • Record the conversation (with permission)
  • Ask for explanations of anything you don’t understand
  • Take notes during the appointment

There’s no such thing as a silly question when you ask a doctor about your health – they want to help you understand your situation clearly.

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Questions to ask your doctor

If you have been diagnosed with cancer, learning more about the disease and its treatment helps you have an active role in your care. Asking your doctor questions will also help you make informed choices. You may want to use these questions as a guide and include some in your own list. 

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Key questions to ask your doctor

About your diagnosis

  • What type of cancer do I have?
  • Has the cancer spread? If so, where?
  • What stage is the cancer and what does this mean?
  • Are the latest tests and treatments available at this hospital?
  • Will a team of specialists be involved in my care?

About tests

  • What will the test involve?
  • What are the benefits and risks?
  • How will the results affect my treatment options?

About treatment and costs

  • What treatment do you recommend and why?
  • Are there other treatment options?
  • How long will treatment take?
  • Will I need to stay in hospital?
  • What are the costs and are they covered by Medicare?
  • How long do I have to make a decision?
  • What happens if I don’t have treatment?

About side effects

  • What are the possible side effects?
  • How can side effects be managed?
  • Will the side effects be temporary or permanent?
  • Can I have vaccines during treatment?

About clinical trials

  • Are there any clinical trials I might join?
  • What would participating in a trial mean?

About follow-up care

  • How often will I need check-ups?
  • Who should I see for follow-up appointments?
  • How will I know if the cancer returns?

If you have advanced cancer

  • What’s the goal of treatment at this stage?
  • What treatments can help with symptoms?
  • What support is available for my family?
  • Can you help me discuss this with my family?
  • What palliative care options are available?

Making the most of your appointments

When you ask a doctor questions, try to be as specific as possible. Don’t hesitate to ask them to explain things again or in simpler terms. Good communication with your healthcare team helps you make informed decisions about your care.

Keep a notebook or use your phone to write down any cancer questions to ask your doctor that come up between appointments. This ensures you don’t forget important concerns you want to discuss.

Remember that you can always schedule another appointment if you have more questions or need clarification about anything discussed.

Questions you may have…

What questions should I ask my doctor after a cancer diagnosis?

After a cancer diagnosis, some important questions to ask your doctor include:

  • What type and stage of cancer do I have?
  • What are the treatment options, and what are the risks and benefits of each?
  • What is the goal of treatment – to cure the cancer, control it, or relieve symptoms?

Your doctor can provide important information to help you understand your health and make informed decisions about your care.

Questions to ask your doctor about cancer?

When discussing cancer with your doctor, you may want to ask about the specifics of your diagnosis, such as the type and stage of cancer, what caused it, and how it will be treated. You may also want to ask about the expected timeline of treatment and your prognosis, as well as any side affects you may experience. If there’s anything you don’t understand, ask your doctor to explain it further until you do.

How to talk to a doctor?

When speaking with your doctor about a cancer diagnosis or treatment, come prepared with a list of questions and concerns. Speak up if you don’t understand something, and don’t be afraid to ask for explanations in plain language. It can also be helpful to bring a family member or friend to appointments to take notes and provide support. Remember, your doctor is there to guide you through this process, so have an open and honest conversation.

Have other questions? Talk to us.

Our team is here to listen and support you.